April 23rd, 2025 | Hospitality on the Hilltop
The Georgetown Retail & Luxury Association had the privilege of hosting Hospitality on the Hilltop, an evening dedicated to exploring the future of luxury travel and hospitality. In partnership with the Baratta Center and the Stanton Distinguished Leadership Series, the conference brought together some of the most influential voices shaping the industry – from global hotel executives to aviation and yachting leaders.
The event opened with remarks from Carolina O’Leary, Co-President of GRLA, alongside Fr. Mark Bosco, S.J., and Sam Bakhshandehpour, CEO of The José Andrés Group, setting the tone for a thought-provoking program.
Codes of Luxury: The White Lotus Effect & Why We Travel the Way We Do
Luxury brand strategist Rob Hoppenheim led an insightful conversation on the cultural and psychological forces redefining travel today. From sound baths and “dopamine décor” to the rise of transformative journeys, he unpacked how wellness, escapism, and narrative storytelling are driving the next era of hospitality.
The Luxury Portfolio: Brand Individuality and Corporate Identity
Tina Edmundson (President of Luxury, Marriott) and Dino Michael (VP & Global Head of Luxury Brands, Hilton) offered a rare joint perspective on how the world’s two most powerful hotel groups balance brand differentiation with corporate identity. Their discussion highlighted the delicate art of creating individuality within expansive portfolios while meeting evolving guest expectations.
The Dealmakers: Real Estate, Expansion, and the Future of Global Hospitality
Richard Arnold (Auberge Resorts Collection), Sheila Farahpour (Four Seasons), and Noah Silverman (Marriott) delved into the strategic decision-making behind global expansion. They explored how luxury brands weigh market potential, forge partnerships, and navigate complex real estate landscapes to establish new destinations without compromising brand DNA.
Luxury in Motion: Aviation, Yachting, and Private Member Clubs
Kolin Jones (Amalfi Jets), Joiwind Ronen (Ned’s Club), and Tim Grisius (Marriott/Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection) closed the panels by taking the audience beyond hotel walls – into the skies, seas, and most exclusive social spaces. Their discussion revealed how high-end travel experiences are increasingly interconnected, shaping a holistic vision of luxury lifestyle.
The evening concluded with a reception hosted by The José Andrés Group, where students, faculty, and industry leaders mingled over light bites and mocktails.
Key takeaways from the night were clear: luxury is no longer just about service and design, but about transformation, connection, and vision. From redefining wellness to expanding across borders and industries, the future of hospitality will be shaped by those who can blend innovation with authenticity.
Students left not only inspired by the conversations but also with practical insights into branding, leadership, and the evolving meaning of luxury in a changing world.